Projo Sox Blog

By Joe McDonald
Journal Sports Writer

FORT MYERS, Fla. _ Jason Varitek wanted one thing this offseason.

The veteran catcher wanted to return to the Red Sox in order to maintain his legacy with the organization he would like to retire with.

Once Varitek became a free agent after completing a four-year deal worth $40 million following the 2008 season, the business aspect of the game had control of his future plans. His agent, Scott Boras, was seeking a multi-year deal in the range of $40 to $50 million. Varitek declined salary arbitration, which would have guaranteed him at least $10 million for 2009.

The sides went back and forth until owner John Henry and Varitek became involved in negotiations in January, which Varitek believes helped the process. Finally he inked a two-year deal that will pay him between $8 and $10 million.

The Captain spoke Saturday afternoon for the first time about the offseason saga.

"There's always a business aspect to this," he said. "That's part of the reason why you didn't hear from me at all throughout this. I'm a player. You have people who deal with the business aspect of this.

"Either way I can walk away from this the same person. I'm going to work my tail off for this pitching staff. I'm going to work my tail off with other catchers and other position players. That doesn't change what I do. It's over with and I'm happy. I have the ability to be here this year and know there's a door open for next year. I can go out there and play and know that I'm one step closer to making sure I can retire in this uniform."

"This is where my heart is and this is where I wanted to be," added Varitek. "I'm just glad at this point it's over with. I'm ecstatic I'm a Red Sox. I'm ecstatic I have the peace of mind that I know I'm going to be in this uniform as I closer to retiring in this uniform. I'm not saying I see retirement anytime soon, but it allows me the opportunity to do what is most important to me and that's to wear this 'C' for this group fans and people in this organization."

 Tags  Jason Varitek Red Sox spring training

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